The air at RCMA’s Child Development Centers and Academies buzzed with excitement as the holiday season arrived. In every corner of Florida, children eagerly anticipated their center’s unique celebrations. Each center had its own way of spreading holiday cheer, but one thing united them all: the joy of the season and the warmth of community.
Each center and academy had their own spin on celebrating the holiday. At a few centers, a surprise awaited the children. Santa Claus himself arrived, with a hearty “Ho, ho, ho!” and a sack full of toys donated by a local church group. The kids’ eyes sparkled with wonder as they each took turns sitting on Santa’s lap, sharing their wishes and receiving a special gift. The laughter echoed through the halls as they tore into their brightly wrapped treasures, holding up dolls, toy cars, and puzzles to show their friends.
At Mulberry Community Academy, the scent of holiday treats filled the air as children gathered to make holiday treats. Guided by their teachers, they decorated cookies with colorful icing and sprinkles, with more candy landing in their mouths than on the cookies! Meanwhile, little hands were busy creating holiday ornaments, painting them with bright reds, greens, and golds.
At other centers, local civic groups brought toys for the children to make sure that every child had a present. The teachers transformed spaces into winter wonderlands, complete with Christmas trees twinkling in the corner. The children, many of whom do not usually experience such festive displays, squealed with joy as they unwrapped their surprises.
All of RCMA’s centers celebrated in their own special way, but the highlight for many was the joy of being together. As the children laughed, played, and created, the teachers looked on with pride. These moments, filled with love and community, reminded everyone why RCMA is more than a school—it is a family.
In the end, it wasn’t just the toys, treats, or ornaments that made the season bright. It was the shared experiences, the sense of belonging, and the magic of the holidays that made this time of year unforgettable for the children at RCMA.
